Nkandu Beltz is an author, philanthropist, social change maker and lover of humanity, who has worked in the not-for-profit sector for over 15 years. Nkandu is very passionate about youth development and helping others. She is devoted to making a lasting change and helping people to live a better life. Nkandu initially started out as a girl child advocate in Zambia, advocating for girl child rights. Nkandu has a background in Journalism and News Writing, worked for the Ngami Times in Botswana and was trained as a peer educator by the Botswana National Youth Council as a peer councillor in matters related to HIV/AIDS. She has worked with Save the Children Australia and was an executive member with the United Nations Association of Western Australia. She founded ‘Nkandu’s Cultural Night’ and ‘Kununurra Youth Development Program’.
In 2011, she was chosen to be an Australian Youth Representative to the ‘Commonwealth Heads of Governments Meeting’ and was later asked to present the Commonwealth Youth Forum Communiqué to the Foreign Ministers meetings chaired by our then Foreign Minister Mr Kevin Rudd. She has worked across cultures and produced her own lunch-time show with Warringarri Aboriginal Radio Station in Kununurra as well as producing content for ABC open rural in WA. She was chosen as a Young Social Pioneer by Foundation for Young Australians in 2012. As a fun, free spirited person, she went on to develop YEPA, Youth Empowerment Program Australia, offering skill based mentoring to young people with the help of local service providers. She was awarded the Pinnacle Professional of the Year award by ‘Continental Who’s Who’ for her dedication to professional excellence.
What makes you truly happy?
When I’m balanced. Making sure that all areas of my life are balanced, this includes, physical, social, mental, financial, family, vocation and spirituality. I love the view from the top that makes me happy too.
Favourite food?
Nshima with beef stew. I love African food. I love to eat.
Favourite quote?
“Many people are talented but only a few distinguish themselves; the ability to rise above lies more in effort than talent”. Unknown.
Favourite read?
The Alchemist By Paulo Coelho
How do you keep your mind, body and soul inspired?
I love to read, I read everyday. I remind myself that I’m here for a purpose and yet at the same time to enjoy everything that this world has to offer. To see the beauty in everything and everyone. To experience love and the wonders of life.
What is your favourite room in your house and why?
My closet. It has my favourite things, clothes, books and shoes. I can sit for hours reading a book in my closet. When I was a kid I always dreamt of having a closet big enough for shoes, clothes and books. Now that I have that, I live my dream.
Do you have a favourite travel destination/s and why?
Paris, every time I get to Paris it feels like its the first time. I’m inspired by the culture and the ‘joie de vivre’ of the French people.
Do you have any advice for our readers who are seeking helpful tips on how they can live a colourful and happy life?
My advice would be to colour your life, make it bright, and wear it with pride. When you experience love and abundance you then automatically emit love to the rest of your community.
For more information head to http://nkandu-beltz.prezly.com
